Marine Iguana

Marine Iguana

Amblyrhynchus cristatus

Vulnerable
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DESCRIPTION

The Marine Iguana is the only lizard adapted to life in the sea. Found only on the Galápagos Islands, it feeds primarily on algae and can dive up to a meter deep. Adult males are significantly larger than females, and their ability to excrete salt is a unique adaptation to their marine environment.

Max Length 140 cm
Max Weight 10 kg
Lifespan 5 - 15 years
Habitat Coastal zone and coral reef
Depth Range 0 - 1 m
Diet Herbivore
Activity Diurnal
Social Behavior Mixed behavour
TOP DESTINATIONS

Featured destinations to spot Marine Iguana

SIGHTING PROBABILITY
  • Unlikely
  • Likely
  • Very likely
Range

Where Marine Iguana has been recorded

Fewer recordsMore records
FAQ

Frequently asked questions about Marine Iguana

Where can you see the Marine Iguana?

The Marine Iguana can be seen at 4 dive destinations in Ecuador. The best spots include Galapagos Islands (Ecuador), Punta Vicente Roca (Ecuador), Gordon Rocks (Ecuador), and Kicker Rock (Ecuador).

What is the best time to see the Marine Iguana?

The Marine Iguana is most often seen at Punta Vicente Roca from June to October.

Can you see the Marine Iguana all year round?

Yes. At Galapagos Islands, Gordon Rocks, and Kicker Rock, the Marine Iguana is seen all year round.

How big does the Marine Iguana get?

The Marine Iguana can reach up to 140 cm in length and 10 kg in weight.

What habitat does the Marine Iguana live in?

The Marine Iguana is found in these habitats: coastal zone and coral reef.

How deep does the Marine Iguana live?

The Marine Iguana lives from the surface down to 1 m.

What does the Marine Iguana eat?

Feeds on algae, seagrass and other plant matter.

When is the Marine Iguana most active?

Active during daylight hours. Morning and midday dives are your best chance to see it moving and feeding.

How long does the Marine Iguana live?

The Marine Iguana lives 5 to 15 years.

What is the conservation status of the Marine Iguana?

The Marine Iguana is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Every answer is built from the conditions and sightings data we keep for Marine Iguana. Spotted something that looks off?

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